Looking for a bit of adventure and maybe the smell of burnt rubber? Then you need to reserve a day at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta. Not only will the thrill jump out, but you’ll learn a thing or two about handling a vehicle.
Just two weeks ago I was invited by A Girl’s Guide to Cars to experience the thrill of high speed handling one of the world’s most prestigious auto brands, Porsche. I knew it would be an experience I’d never forget.
A Day at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta Georgia
The thrill of the wheel is indescribable. Pro-tip, If you’re flying into Atlanta just for your Porsche experience, you should consider airport parking reservations. It’s no secret, I enjoy being behind the wheel of a powerful vehicle. So, when I found out I’d be spending a day with the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta, I was SUPER excited.
It was a perfect day for the track. The sky was clear, the sun was shining and the fall breeze whispered, “it’s a good day to drive”. When I first arrived to the Porsche Experience Center I couldn’t help but remember that it was also the Avengers HQ.
Like how cool is that right? Spending the day where the Marvel Avengers were was surely a fangirl moment for me! I couldn’t wait to put the pedal to the metal. But first, lunch!
Dining at the Porsche Experience Center
The very first thing I noticed about Restaurant 356 was its massive windows overlooking the track (and the Avengers HQ, let’s be serious here).
Second, its style. I loved its modern contemporary and sleek decor.
Restaurant 356 offers fine dining and is the perfect place for a business lunch, lunch during your Porsche Experience and even a special event.
With its wine selection, cocktails and delectable menu, you really can’t go wrong.
They are open for Lunch: Monday – Saturday; 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM and Dinner: Thursday – Saturday; 5:30 PM– 8:30 PM.
There is also the Carrera Café if you’re just looking for a snack or some coffee. The Carrera Café is open Tuesday – Saturday from 9 AM – 6 PM.
The Experiences
Before the fun began I sat through a few minutes of orientation where I learned about the abilities of the vehicles and the details of the tracks I would be on.
This was a great way to get ready for what was ahead.
I was fortunate enough to get start my experience in the 718 Boxter GTS. Not only was I the driver, but I had a professional driver in the passenger seat guiding me every step of the way.
There’s something empowering about stepping into a world-class vehicle like the Porsche 718 Boxter. From the smell to the sparkles right to the power of its engine, you will step out of it a new woman.
1-Mile Handling Circuit
We took the Boxter along a 1-mile Handling Circuit where I eased my way into the feel of the car. I took tight turns and managed its power on the winding turns which gave me a sense of its brake power and ability to handle the road.
This was a great way to get comfortable with its power and get ready for the next level. After that, it was onto the Dynamics Area.
The Dynamics Area
The Dynamics Area was where the fun really started. And the butterflies. This is where I learned how to put the Boxter into “launch mode” by using the brake and the gas at the same time, launching me into high-speed thrills.
This is also where the brakes are put to use (if you have the guts). After launching to 80mph and slamming the breaks, you learn a thing or two about the performance of Porsche (and eating before launch).
I also tested its lane change abilities as I weaved in and out of cones at high speeds. By this time I was feeling pretty comfortable with the power behind the wheel and confident in Porsche’s performance.
Getting yourself comfortable here was really important for what was coming next, the Kick Plate and Wet Low-Friction Circle. I honestly would have been far more nervous had I not been to the Dynamics Area first.
The Kick Plate
Once I had mastered the 1-Mile Handling Circuit and the Dynamics Area, it was time to switch vehicles. This time I hopped into the 911 Carrera.
I was feeling fully confident in not only my own abilities but in the performance of Porsche and the guidance of my driving coach.
The Kick Plate would require all three.
Ever have someone tell you to drive 25mph onto slick, wet pavement immediately after you’ve watched the driver in front of you fishtail off the pavement?
The purpose of this experience is to learn how to safely maneuver the vehicle when the pavement is wet. There are actually sensors that trigger the car to move randomly which mimics a vehicle sliding in bad weather conditions.
This taught me how to handle myself if I am ever in a situation where I’ve lost control. I have to say, I wish I had learned these things earlier in life. And when my son is 21, I’ll be taking him here to learn this for himself.
The Wet Low-Friction Circle
This was by far my favorite and most thrilling experience on the track. Also, terrifying at first. But I will say that I pulled it off like a BOSS and I feel SUPER cool for doing so.
The Wet Low-Friction Circle is a wet circle where you are instructed to floor it while turning the wheel and forcing your vehicle to spin out.
During this exercise, I learned how to effectively take control back without getting nervous.
I can’t stress how important this is in everyday life. I truly felt like a badass behind the wheel, and still do. I would have loved to do this a few more times, but the clock was ticking and it was time to get off-road.
The Off-road Circuit with the Porsche Cayenne
Next to the wet track, this was my favorite experience. Not only is the Porsche Cayenne a new adult goal for me, but its off-road abilities blew my mind.
This vehicle did everything from climb hills, drive sideways, into water depths that went above the doors to going down steep hills without even having to use the brakes. My mind is officially blown.
This was a track that I did not drive. This was driven by professionals. But, as the rider in the passenger seat, I will say, CALL SHOTGUN!
What Else is Happening at the Porsche Experience?
After an exhilarating day on the track be sure to head downstairs to the Heritage Museum where you’ll find a collection of vintage Porsches. A must see for any sports car enthusiast.
There is also the Simulator Lab where you can sit down for a fully immersive simulation driving experience.
In Closing
I absolutely LOVED spending the day at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta. I can’t wait to go back when my son is a bit older so he can share the experience as well.
Whether you’re looking for some fun, setting up a memorable date in Atlanta, are a Porsche enthusiast (or even just an overall sports car enthusiast), I highly recommend planning a visit to the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta.
